Young riders to do battle

UP AND OVER: Takapau teen Samantha Carrington is one of four young riders named to represent New Zealand in the transtasman test against Australia at the Larsen Sawmilling Equestrian Championships in Gisborne this weekend. Photo by Sarah Lord/KAMPIC

All roads lead to Gisborne for some of the nation's most exciting up-and-coming showjumpers who take on Australia in a young rider test series at the Larsen Sawmilling 32nd Equestrian Championships starting tomorrow.

The annual Trans-Tasman Young Rider Challenge sees four-person teams from Australia and New Zealand go head to head on borrowed horses over three days of the two-round competition.

Representing New Zealand are Georgia Bouzaid (Cambridge), Rylee Sheehan (Te Aroha), Tyla Hackett (Cambridge) and Sam Carrington (Takapau), with Sam Gillies (Oamaru) the reserve.

Australia's team are Clemency Hughes, Hayden Parker, Charlie Richardson and Anneliese Wansey.

The clash dates back many years. Australia last won the test in 2017 but New Zealand has held it since, albeit with a few non-competed Covid years in the mix.

New Zealand trainer and chef d'equipe John Cottle was one of the original people behind the clash.

“We just don't have enough team competitions in New Zealand and it brings with it quite a different way of riding,” the two-time Olympian said.

“It is added pressure for these young riders when they are jumping for their team.”

The riders will only be allowed to jump their horses just before they head into the arena.

“The challenge is for them to get used to a horse — not training it but rather adapting to and reading that horse.”

Cottle says the Kiwi team are a strong bunch.

“We have some very talented riders in there.”

While the Australians are unknown, he has no doubt they will bring their A-game.

The chance for the riders from both teams to network and create new friendships enhances the clash.

The test will run over three days, with points awarded for double clears and wins.

It is part of three big days of competition at the popular annual championships.

John Vallance is the course designer for Ring 1, with Edward Bullock in Ring 2.

Australian Vallance, an FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale) Level 4 four designer, has been part of three Olympic Games among other top events.

There is a full schedule of showjumping and show hunter classes, including series classes which have attracted top horses and riders.